Summer is here, making it a challenge for some homes to maintain a cool environment. They might not have air conditioning, or their homes are equipped with old AC units. Therefore, these homes feel unbearable discomfort. If they have window air conditioners or an old central AC, they also have to face huge cooling bills. Homeowners who experience less than ideal cooling should consider installing a central air conditioning system in their homes. Unfortunately, many misconceptions still surround this type of cooling option.
This article will help dispel some of the misinformation about central air conditioning systems. It also includes valid air conditioning facts so that you can make informed decisions about which is the best cooling option for your home.
Many people do not bother with installing a central air conditioner because they think it requires expensive remodeling for the installation. Old homes might not be fitted with the ductwork needed for a central AC to operate. Therefore, remodeling is required to install ducts, and this can affect a home’s structural integrity. This can disrupt the day-to-day activities of the household.
Although installing ductwork was indeed necessary for central air conditioners to work, it is no longer needed today. Modern central ACs have smaller ducts and high-power circulators that are easier to install in your home.
Central air conditioning is not an expensive way to cool your home. It consumes almost the same amount of power for the same coverage space. This myth is due to leaky ducts. Older units tend to have this issue because holes develop as the ductwork ages. These are not easy to find unless the air conditioner receives regular professional tune-ups.
Newly installed units with mini ducts are less prone to develop holes because they have enhanced design and construction. Therefore, they are more reliable, highly efficient, and have low operational costs.
Central air conditioners have a reputation for being noisy. However, this is not true. Some homeowners might be basing this on their experiences or from hearsay. This is a problem that plagues older models.
Central ACs have come a long way and have found solutions for some of its common issues, including the noise problem. Although old central air conditioners might emit loud sounds during operation, this is not the case anymore. Modern models have built-in soundproofing, so they barely produce any sound. You can sleep soundly at night without any noise from your air conditioner.
Choosing a cooling system replacement should be a well-thought-out process. Not all systems are the same, so do not just pick blindly. One model might be highly efficient and consume less power. The other might be better when it comes to dehumidifying your home. After all, air conditioners do more than just cool our homes. They also remove excess moisture in the air through condensation, making our home colder and more comfortable.
A home’s aesthetics is an essential part of a home. Therefore, homeowners will do a lot to make sure the interior design remains intact. Many people think that central ACs can ruin this, so they disregard them as a cooling option. However, a competent expert who specializes in air conditioner installations will make the central AC nearly invisible. Outlets can also be placed in a way that they don’t draw attention. This way, they do not clash with your home’s aesthetic while keeping your home cool in the background.
Centralized HVAC systems used to only be able to do one thing. It might be able to cool your home but not keep it warm, and vice versa. This means that two separate systems are needed, with one having to be idle for the seasons it is not in use. Fortunately, this is not the case anymore.
Central HVAC units can now heat and cool your home. You only need one unit to keep your home comfortable throughout the year. Moreover, dual-purpose units are easier to operate and have a cheaper and faster installation process. They are also easier to operate and are highly efficient.
As evidenced in this article, prevailing air conditioner misconceptions are not always true. Technological advances have ensured that these old AC issues are a thing of the past. Learn more about the newest AC models by consulting your local, trusted HVAC supplier.
When you need superior HVAC services in Hartford County, Connecticut, call Tower Energy. Rest assured, we have highly skilled and professionally certified technicians for all your heating and cooling needs. All our techs are knowledgeable and experienced in conducting excellent HVAC maintenance, installations, repairs, and replacements. All our trained techs can service any HVAC make and model promptly and correctly.
Tower Energy guarantees to have the most competitive HVAC service rates in the area. We offer maintenance services that can enhance your home’s comfort and energy efficiency while reducing your utility bills. We can recommend the best solution to your HVAC repair or replacement needs as well. All these can be done while staying within your budget. All our works come with a guarantee. Schedule your next HVAC tune-up or service appointment with Tower Energy today. We provide free, in-home estimates.
Contact us now or call us at (860) 677-7347 to find out more.
The most severe months of winter have passed, and the warm weather is about to take over as we await the spring. It usually means that the furnace will get its much-deserved rest. The mild incoming temperature gives you the best chance to work on your HVAC equipment without a harsh environment. If you’re one of those property owners who intend to end the winter on a positive note, you may find these end of winter HVAC tips helpful.
A handful of heating and cooling issues originate from the air filters. When your HVAC filters get too dirty, they cease to function the way they should. The dirt and other debris that clog the filters will prevent the air from getting in. This forces the system to work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures. What you probably do not know is that a dirty filter means that the equipment will consume more energy.
Because the months of January and February are usually the coldest, the furnace is more likely to overwork just to generate enough heat. You must check your furnace filter and get rid of the debris that clogs it. You may also want to consider replacing it.
We’re right in the middle of winter, so you probably don’t think about the prospect of upgrading your unit. Many homeowners choose to wait it out until the temperatures reach a point when they no longer need the HVAC system for an extended period. The issue with this line of thinking is that you’re wasting a lot of time, plus you’re putting your family at risk of discomfort for several months. It can also increase your energy consumption because you keep on using broken or malfunctioning equipment. You prevent that from happening if you respond to any issues with immediateness. Homeowners should replace a malfunctioning heater as soon as possible.
The air filters usually get clogged with dirt, but they’re not the only components that get dirty within the HVAC system. All sorts of debris will find their way to the ducts, eventually building up when you don’t perform regular cleaning and maintenance. When there’s a clog in the ductwork, it will overwork your system. A badly overworked system results in poor indoor air quality and could put everyone at risk of getting sick. Your ducts must be inspected and cleaned periodically, but you don’t have to do it yourself. Professional HVAC maintenance and repair companies can do the hard work on your behalf.
It’s never a smart decision to wait for the winter to pass by before you act. HVAC maintenance does not factor in the season or weather. Whenever you notice something is wrong, then you should respond accordingly. Many homeowners who perform spring cleaning will grab the chance to incorporate the HVAC system. If you act fast, you may be able to secure an early spring slot and eventually get the maintenance work done before the start of the mad rush. You want your air conditioner to be in tiptop condition as well right before the summer begins.
If you aren’t prepared to replace your equipment, you at least should consider upgrading some of the essential system components, most notably the thermostat. You’d be surprised at the available options out there. Thermostat technology has gone a long way, with some models offering advanced features meant for convenience and efficiency. You should focus on getting a programmable thermostat that automatically adjusts the temperature according to your preferences at certain times of the day.
The presence of drafty windows at home causes air to escape. With the energy loss, your heating and cooling system will have to work harder to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. But those gaps on the doors and windows will eventually take their toll on your equipment. The easiest solution is to look for these gaps and seal them. If you find it hard to locate all gaps, then you probably would benefit from hiring an HVAC technician to help you.
Since the outdoor unit is exposed to the weather elements, you expect it to collect various debris, including but not limited to salt residues from the rain, gunk, dirt, stale water, and even dead insects. Those things can interfere with the normal function of the outdoor unit. So, if you don’t want to compromise its performance, be sure to clean it periodically.
The fact that the seasons change in a predictable manner means that you should use it to your advantage. Always think ahead and respond to what your HVAC system needs. The goal is to prevent the likelihood of an unnecessary repair and a total breakdown. Performing regular cleaning and maintenance also corresponds to longer service life and improved efficiency. There’s always the option of hiring an HVAC company to schedule your system maintenance.
Tower Energy is the premier heating and cooling service in the area. We pride ourselves in being the best the industry has to offer, thanks to our NATE certified technicians. They are all equipped and trained to perform HVAC repairs, maintenance, replacements, installations, and more. Our technicians have the experience to handle all challenges related to HVAC.
By working with Tower Energy, you can expect competitive pricing. We’ll work around your budget in finding solutions that improve efficiency, comfort, and indoor air quality.
Call Tower Energy today for your free estimate.
Contact us now or call us at (860) 677-7347 to find out more.
Winter brings with it the holidays and other joyous things. Unfortunately, winter also means low temperatures and snow. Not to mention the dry indoor air we have to cope up with as well. It might not seem like a big issue, but dry air can affect your home’s indoor air quality and comfort. It can also affect your health when neglected for too long. Often, homeowners do not take notice of the dry air in your home until after dry air symptoms pop up. In this article, we will talk about dry air, how it affects your home’s air quality, and a few solutions to dry air issues.
A dry air environment is when the level of water vapor in the air is almost non-existent. Water vapor in the air is a natural occurrence. However, changes in the temperature can affect the amount of moisture in the air. If it is cold, then the air won’t be able to retain water vapor. It is no wonder that we experience dry air more during the winter season.
Humidity refers to the amount of water vapor or moisture in the air. The humidity level inside your home will also determine its comfort level. The most common reasons for dry indoor air are:
A right balance of water vapor in the air means you maintain the indoor air quality standards in your home. One of the likely reasons for an imbalanced moisture level is that your home does not have proper insulation. Your heater reduces the moisture levels inside your home. However, the balance can be maintained if there is an appropriate level of humidity inside your home. Any holes, gaps, or cracks in your home will pull in the dry air from outside and disrupt the balance.
The moisture inside your home is reduced every time you turn on your heating system. This also occurs whenever you switch on cooling appliances like air conditioners. The air will remain dry if the water vapor that is lost when you turn on your HVAC system is not replaced.
Prolonged exposure to dry indoor air can cause a few issues to both your health and home. A few of the common effects of dry air are:
Dry air constricts your airways. When this happens, you will have difficulty in breathing. This is especially an issue for people who suffer from chronic respiratory problems like asthma. Some of the symptoms include feeling a tightness in the chest, coughing, and shortness of breath.
Dry air tends to suck the moisture out of your skin as well. This might lead to skin issues such as itchiness and flaking. Your hair is also affected id there is very little humidity in the air as it can lead to having dry hair that is prone to breakage. People who have the flu may also notice their symptoms worsening if exposed to dry air. They might experience dry, itchy eyes and chills, among other symptoms.
If you find any cracks on the paint or if your wallpaper is peeling off, it might be because of the dry air. Books, musical instruments, paper or wooden sculptures, and paintings can also get damaged by the dry air.
Anything made of wood inside your home is at risk too. Dry air can cause deformity on any wooden surfaces in your home, including doors, furniture, window frames, and floors. It can also make wooden cabinets, doors, and windows difficult to open and close. This is because they tend to dry out when exposed to dry air for long periods.
Dry indoor air can be damaging to your health and home. Fortunately, dry indoor air can be preventable. Some of the things you can do to keep the humidity level balanced include:
Check around your house for any gaps, holes, and cracks. Use fillers, putty, or foam sealant to fix them. Weatherstripping your doors and windows is also recommended. Make sure that the insulation in your home is intact and sufficient. Otherwise, add more for better insulation.
A humidifier adds moisture in the air. It is an essential device for when you need to keep the humidity level balanced inside your home. There are five types of humidifiers, some of which are portable and perfect for single rooms. However, if you want to make sure that your whole home receives the much-needed moisture, consider installing a central humidifier. This ensures that you receive comfort while still being cost-efficient.
Regular HVAC tune-ups are vital to ensure that your heating equipment works properly for a very long time. It is recommended that you get your HVAC system maintained at least once a year before the winter months arrive. A professional HVAC technician can help you with all your heating and cooling needs, even identifying issues before they turn into larger problems. An HVAC system that is in tiptop shape will prevent indoor air pollution and maintain a home environment that is comfortable and safe for you and your family.
The winter season is a time for joyous occasions. Don’t let the dry air dampen the mood. Dry indoor air can cause quite health and comfort problems for you and your family. However, you do not have to suffer through it as there are many ways to fix it. Taking the right approach into improving your indoor air quality and getting your home winter-ready will go a long way.
If you need top-quality heating and cooling services, look no further than Tower Energy. We have the NATE certified technicians that can repair, maintain, install, and replace any HVAC make and model. We guarantee that our professionals have the skills, knowledge, and experience to service your HVAC equipment properly.
Rest assured that Tower Energy can assist you with all your HVAC needs. We offer the most competitive service costs in the area, and a guarantee backs our work. Our HVAC services prioritize indoor air quality, energy efficiency, comfort, and more. Call us and schedule a free, in-home estimate today.
Contact us now or call us at (860) 677-7347 to find out more.
The quality of the furnace installation is equally as important as the quality of the equipment that is installed. For this reason, HVAC experts will always advise homeowners to hire a professional when they need a furnace installation in their home. An improper furnace installation will impact the efficiency, performance, and safety of a unit. Hiring a professional is just a great approach to avoiding major furnace problems in the future. In the following article, we highlight the importance of proper furnace installation.
The first step for furnace installation should always include a licensed HVAC technician and a Manual J Load Calculation. Your HVAC installer will use this to determine the capacity and size of the furnace needed.
A Manual J Load Calculation is used when calculating the heating and cooling capacities of an HVAC system. There are specific factors to this calculation that take into account many aspects of your home. These include measurements such as walls, square footage, and ceiling height. Insulation and the position of your home is also a factor.
The calculation will determine which HVAC system is right for your dwelling. The capacity is usually measured in tons and British Thermal Units (BTUs).
Each home is unique, and the calculation must take into account not only the structure and design but the materials used as well as the residents. A correctly sized and fitted HVAC unit should be capable of maintaining an even indoor temperature when providing heat.
If the system is not suitably sized for the residence, it will not work correctly. This could lead to inadequate heat supply and an overworked furnace. Even if you purchased a unit with a high-efficiency rating, your over or undersized unit will not run efficiently. The inefficiency of your heating system leads to higher fuel consumption, higher home heating costs, increased wear and tear, and premature replacement.
Until it reaches the end of its lifespan, the occupants will feel discomfort and experience poor indoor air quality as well. Therefore, correctly sizing your unit is paramount.
There are also many safety issues surrounding an improperly installed heating system. Below are some of the more serious problems that can occur when a furnace is not installed correctly:
Poorly connected systems can leave gaps in the joints, which could potentially cause a gas leak. Such a leak is a serious matter as it is combustible and extremely harmful to the health of both humans and animals.
Another serious problem with incorrectly installed units is faulty wiring. Not only can wiring problems drain power, but they can also increase the risk of fire in the home. Issues with the electrics can also decrease efficiency, meaning more expense for the bill payer.
Another issue that arises when an HVAC system is not correctly installed is discomfort for the occupants. When the unit is not functioning as needed, it can lead to the following problems:
Your HVAC system can have an adverse effect on air quality when installed incorrectly. If the drain system that your HVAC system has is incorrectly set in place, then this can lead to a water leak and structural damage to your home. Also, the accumulation of moisture can result in the growth of mold and mildew, affecting the quality of the air that you breathe.
Faulty installation of a furnace can affect the duct system, leading to poor air distribution. This occurs when the capacity of the output does not equal the duct size. This issue leads to uneven temperature throughout the house. It will also increase the inefficiency of the entire system.
The problems created by poor air distribution are responsible for creating hot and cold spots in the home, which in turn will lead to discomfort for the occupants.
Your HVAC system relies on being correctly vented. The wrong fitting size or material will create problems that become quickly evident. A furnace that has venting issues releases carbon monoxide, a fatal gas that is both odorless and colorless.
To ensure a proper furnace installation, it is important to choose a licensed and experienced HVAC company. Choose a local heating company with a good reputation.
The HVAC company you choose should have the following qualifications:
NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certification is granted to technicians who have passed the core and specialty tests they provide. They are an independent body that utilizes a knowledge-based exam to certify the credentials of professionals working in the installation industry for heating and cooling systems. Always look for NATE certified technicians when choosing an HVAC installation company. NATE is a sign of competence in the HVAC industry.
Licensed technicians who are qualified to perform their jobs are knowledgeable and trained and will provide competent work once hired.
A bonded HVAC contractor provides a surety bond, which is a form of insurance that covers both the technician and the clients should the need arise.
It is advisable that you request references from your potential HVAC installer. A reliable company will have no issue providing these and will have them readily available on request. Also, be sure to check their website. Many reputable HVAC companies enable customers to post reviews about the work the company has performed for them.
The proper installation of your home heating system is vitally important for the many reasons noted above. Not only will it ensure the safety and comfort of the household, but it will reduce unnecessary costs in the future.
Many companies offer heating services. Choose one that you can trust. A quality installation by a trained professional will ensure future comfort for your home and family. It will reduce the likelihood of needing a premature replacement or frequent repairs, which can be costly over time. Overall, don’t just choose a furnace make and model wisely. Choose your furnace installation company wisely too.
If you are looking for an excellent, highly recommended and qualified service for your home heating needs, Tower Energy is a company you can trust.
We offer superior heating and cooling services, including HVAC tune-ups, installations, and repairs. Our team of NATE certified technicians has the experience and knowledge necessary to meet all of your home heating needs.
We offer the most competitive prices for all of our HVAC services, including repairs and replacements. We always keep your budget in mind while prioritizing energy efficiency, comfort, indoor air quality, and more. All of our work is guaranteed.
For appointments or a free in-home estimate, call Tower Energy today.
Contact us now or call us at (860) 677-7347 to find out more.
Boilers and furnaces are two types of home heating equipment that many people often confuse. This isn’t surprising given that both of these units supply heat to commercial and residential buildings. This, however, is where the similarity ends. Even though both systems share the common purpose of indoor heating, one is very different from the other. As a homeowner, you will have to choose a system for your home. The system you choose will depend on the layout of your property and your heating needs. As such, it is vital to understand a boiler vs. a furnace, their differences, and the advantages of each.
This article will talk about some of the basic differences that lie between these two heating system types.
Boilers are large-sized, closed containers in which water or another liquid is warmed up to generate steam or vapor. This is the central component of many heating systems. It is also a main component that contributes to heat distribution and emission.
When water or liquid is used for heating purposes, this is called a radiator system or a hydronic heating system. Apart from the actual boiler, the entire system is comprised of piping, a circulator pump, radiators, and the baseboard. These are all installed in different spaces and rooms for proper heat distribution. Residential boilers can have very few components or many, depending on how much space and how many rooms require heating in the home.
A furnace uses air to generate heat. This system is capable of distributing warm air to many rooms. A lot of people refer to this heating system type as a forced-air heater. With it, room-temperature or cool air is forced through a heat exchanger where it gets warmed up. Once heated, it is passed through HVAC ductwork for distribution. There are three furnace types that property owners can choose from: downflow, upflow, and horizontal. They can use induction, gas, electricity, or oil to get the job done.
How they operate is the primary difference between a furnace and a boiler. Boilers produce warmth by heating liquid or water within a sealed container. This system then pushes hot water through a series of pipes that travel throughout the building. The pipes are heated by the hot water so that sufficient heat is generated for warming up the interior rooms. As long as a boiler is capable of producing steam or hot water, it will be able to keep the building warm.
Conversely, a furnace heating system relies on a heat exchanger. With this process, the furnace heats air rather than liquid or water. The air is then moved about the home to create warmer indoor temperatures. A blower motor is used to circulate this air so that it is effectively moved through the ductwork and vents.
Heating up air requires more energy than heating up water. Due to this fact, furnaces tend to use more fuel over a shorter period of time than boilers. When it comes to heating equipment cost, boilers tend to be pricier, but they can also be a lot more durable than furnaces. This, of course, will additionally depend on how well homeowners are maintaining this equipment.
Below, we’ll talk about some of the benefits and drawbacks of owning a boiler.
Following, we will talk about some of the benefits and drawbacks that having a furnace entails.
At the end of the day, whether you choose a furnace or a boiler will largely depend upon the nature of the building that you’re trying to heat. It also depends on the magnitude of your heating and cooling requirements. If you’re changing out an old and outdated heating system to have a new one installed, you’ll be delighted to discover that many new furnace and boiler models have high-efficiency ratings. Thus, you can enjoy significant savings with these products over time. If you aren’t sure which system type is going to be right for you, get professional advice from a trusted, local HVAC contractor.
Tower Energy is the leading expert in the area of heating and cooling solutions. Our technicians are all NATE-certified and possess ample experience in helping you with all of your home comfort issues. You can trust us to give you the most competitive prices locally. Moreover, for your satisfaction, we proudly stand behind all of the work that we perform. Give Tower Energy a call now to get your free, in-home consultation and estimate.
Contact us now or call us at (860) 677-7347 to find out more.
